The CVC HIDTA region is a national-level distribution center for
methamphetamine and marijuana produced in the region as well as marijuana,
ice methamphetamine, cocaine, black tar heroin, ODDs, and diverted pharmaceuticals
smuggled from Mexico into the United States. Mexican DTOs are the primary
wholesale distributors of drugs in the CVC HIDTA region, typically utilizing
stash sites located at private residences, warehouses, and storage facilities
in cities and towns throughout the region. In fact, law enforcement
reporting indicates that since 2005, cities like Modesto and small towns
such as Los Banos and Patterson along the Interstate 5 corridor have
emerged as regional- and national-level transshipment points for drugs
smuggled from Mexico en route to drug markets in California and throughout
much of the nation, including markets in the Great Lakes, Mid-Atlantic,
New York/New Jersey, Pacific, Southwest, and West Central Regions.

Many criminal groups and street gangs in the HIDTA region distribute
illicit drugs at the midlevel and retail level in their respective areas.
No group or gang dominates midlevel or retail distribution because of
constantly changing dynamics in the region's drug trade, including access
to weapons and drug supplies. These groups and gangs typically are supplied
by Mexican DTOs. Drug sales in metropolitan areas take place in open-air
markets (located on streets and in parking lots) and in clubs and bars;
distributors sell to both new, unfamiliar customers and well-known,
repeat customers. Drug sales in rural areas usually take place at prearranged
locations and typically are between a dealer and known or referred customers.
Law enforcement reporting indicates that distributors use cell phones,
satellite phones, pagers, and other personal communication devices to
communicate with sources and customers. In addition, distributors often
use text messages consisting of code words that allow them to communicate
with reduced risk of detection.